Driver Arrested After Fatal Container Crash in Penang

Fatal Incident in Bukit Mertajam BUKIT MERTAJAM

A trailer driver has been arrested by Penang police following a tragic accident on Wednesday, November 13, where a fallen container crushed a woman to death at a busy intersection on Jalan Bukit Tengah.

Police Investigation Underway 

Seberang Perai Tengah district police chief ACP Helmi Aris confirmed that the 51-year-old driver is currently being held for questioning under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

Negative Alcohol and Drug Test 

Initial tests for alcohol and drugs returned negative results. However, the police plan to seek a remand order at the Bukit Mertajam Magistrate Court on Thursday.

Call for Witnesses 

Police are urging any witnesses to the incident to come forward and contact Investigating Officer Insp Mohd Shahid Othman at 0172670543 or visit their nearest police station.

Details of the Accident 

The tragic incident occurred when Lee Zi Rou, the 21-year-old victim, was driving to work when the accident occurred. The container’s fall caused the destruction of multiple vehicles, including Lee’s Perodua Bezza, and severely injured a man in another vehicle. Tan Chou Theng, 25, was driving a Honda Jazz and suffered serious injuries.

How the Container Fell 

Helmi detailed that the crash occurred at approximately 9:30 AM when five vehicles and a lorry were stopped at a traffic light on Jalan Kebun Sirih. A trailer approaching from Jalan Bukit Tengah made an unexpected left turn, lost control, and dropped its cargo onto two vehicles at the intersection. The collision forced the cars backward, resulting in a chain reaction, pushing the affected vehicles into three others, as well as a lorry.